Gender Disparities in Sexual Behaviors and Attitudes among Adolescents and Young People in Tchaourou- Benin: A Multi-dimensional Exploratory Study

Authors

  • Mouhamadou Djima Baranon Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology, and Innovation, JKUAT, Ecole Nationale de Statistique, de Planification et de Démographie (ENSPD), Université de Parakou, BeninNairobi, Kenya,
  • Michael Arthur Ofori Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology, and Innovation, JKUAT, Nairobi, Kenya
  • Youssouf Bouzir Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology, and Innovation, JKUAT, Nairobi, Kenya
  • Tina Confort Kollie Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology, and Innovation, JKUAT, Nairobi, Kenya
  • Daniel Biftu Bekalo Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology, and Innovation, JKUAT, Department of Statistics, Haramaya University, Dire Dawa, EthiopiaNairobi, Kenya,
  • Amos Kipkorir Langat Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology, and Innovation, JKUAT, Nairobi, Kenya
  • Mohamed Adam Suliman Ishag Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology, and Innovation, JKUAT, Nairobi, Kenya

Keywords:

Adolescents-young people, sexuality, early sexuality, reproductive health

Abstract

The sexual well-being of adolescents and young individuals is a critical concern in many African countries, particularly those in sub-Saharan Africa. Numerous organizations have implemented projects and programs to tackle this issue, including Benin. This study utilizes data from a 2016 socio-demographic survey conducted in Tchaourou, a rural municipality in Benin, to examine the circumstances of adolescents and young people in the region. Specifically, we focus on gender disparities in sexual and reproductive lives. Our analysis reveals that girls have less exposure to comprehensive sex education, leading to early sexual initiation and earlier pregnancies compared to boys (17 years for girls and 18 years for boys). Girls also face higher vulnerability to sexually transmitted infections. Surprisingly, over 70% of boys have their first sexual intercourse at the desired time, while less than 50% of girls have the same experience. Although boys' situation appears relatively better, it remains a concern for both genders due to early sexual initiation, early pregnancies, and increased risk of STIs. Addressing this issue comprehensively is crucial for the well-being of both adolescent boys and girls.

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Published

2023-08-06

How to Cite

Baranon, M. D., Michael Arthur Ofori, Youssouf Bouzir, Tina Confort Kollie, Daniel Biftu Bekalo, Amos Kipkorir Langat, & Mohamed Adam Suliman Ishag. (2023). Gender Disparities in Sexual Behaviors and Attitudes among Adolescents and Young People in Tchaourou- Benin: A Multi-dimensional Exploratory Study. International Journal of Social Sciences: Current and Future Research Trends, 19(1), 87–100. Retrieved from https://ijsscfrtjournal.isrra.org/index.php/Social_Science_Journal/article/view/1409

Issue

Vol. 19 No. 1 (2023)

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Articles

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